I always wanted to be a fashion designer and I learned costume illustration in high school. That was an incredible high school. It was more like a college. I'm moving more in that direction, just kind of merchandising my name.

It has always been, and still is, my intention to build a playground in Central Park.

I can be a better me than anyone can.

My life has often been described as 'from rags to riches' but in fact, the Ross's were never raggedy.

I'm not really a songwriter - I'm an interpreter. So in a sense I am an actress first and foremost. I act out the songs, and I lead with my heart.

So I'm not worried about the emotions I carry with me, because I'm happy that I have them; I think it's good for the work I do. The emotions that are not healthy are the ones you hold inside, like anger.

The first time I heard a Billie Holiday record, I thought, 'What's so great about Billie Holiday?'